A review by sarasbooks
Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys

hopeful informative reflective sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? N/A
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

Salt to the sea follows the story of four individuals during World War II, in the winter of 1945. Each chapter is told from a different point of view, so that the reader can get to know each character individually, their thoughts, their pasts, their secrets, their hopes. They all come from different places, lead different lives but they suddenly cross paths and everything changes.

WOW. I don't have words to describe this book. It did so much more to me than I anticipated. I have read a lot of books about World War II but this one was different. I don't want to give out any spoilers in case you don't know much about the premise (which is quite spoilery I think) but I definitely learned about a big historical event that I was completely unaware of. 
The chapters were very short but that didn't in any way disturb the flowing of the story. It was a very fast-paced, quick but deep read. It made me smile and cry and I didn't want to stop reading. It captivated me from the very beginning. I kept telling myself "one more chapter", which is very unusual for me.
The writing was so beautiful, lyrical, touching. It nurtured my soul and felt comforting and hopeful, despite the triggering topics. I can't wait to read more of Sepetys novels! The only small complaint I have would be the abrupt ending. It did not however change my rating. I still love it with my whole heart.
Joana, Florian, Emilia, Klaus, the Poet and Ingrid, I love you all.
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